Businesses that have not yet replaced Halon-based fire fighting systems could fall foul of the law if they do not take immediate action, according to Norwich Union.
Businesses that have not yet replaced Halon-based fire fighting systems could fall foul of the law if they do not take immediate action, according to Norwich Union.
The regulations governing the extinguishing agent, Halon 1301 and 1211, require all Halon systems to be dismantled and the substance removed and either recycled or destroyed safely at a registered disposal site. Systems can be found in data centres, computer suites, telecommunications switch centres, power plant rooms, cableways and other critical business areas.
Allister Smith, property risk manager at Norwich Union, says: “Unfortunately, our evidence shows that many businesses don’t understand their obligations and the consequences of failing to comply.
“With less than three months before the phase-out of Halon, businesses with a need for specific protection using gaseous suppression systems need to allow sufficient time for designers and installers to remove existing Halon systems and replace them with a more suitable alternative.
“There is likely to be a significant number of companies that have overlooked taking action to phase out their use of Halon and implement new systems with environmentally acceptable fire suppression agents.
“With an increased demand for consultancy being placed on the fire protection industry at this time, companies may not be able to meet the regulations in time and risk fines as a result.”
The Department of Trade and Industry has recently produced a guidance leaflet providing advice on Halon system management, which is available from www.dti.gov.uk/access/ozone.htm.
In addition, full assistance with replacement schemes can be obtained from Grinnell UK, with special discounts for Norwich Union customers. Call the Grinnell UK helpline on 01442 411701.
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